Child endangerment laws vary from state to state in their naming (child abuse, child neglect, neglectful supervision, etc.), definitions, and penalties (misdemeanor or felony, jail or probation). But parents, guardians, and other adult caregivers with responsibility for supervising children have an obligation to protect those children from unreasonably dangerous conditions.

Situations that may constitute child endangerment include (1) leaving a child unattended in a motor vehicle; (2) serving alcohol to an underage driver; (3) driving while intoxicated with a child in the motor vehicle; (4) leaving a young child unsupervised in an unsafe place or situation; (5) unreasonable punishment resulting in bodily injury (severe spanking, burning, extended isolation, etc.); (6) hiring a babysitter, nanny, or other adult supervisor with a known history of sexual or other abuse of children; (7) leaving firearms within the reach of children; (8) exposing a child to drug transactions or manufacturing; (9) exposing a child to pornography; (10) engaging in sexual activity in view of a child; and (11) placing or allowing a child to remain in a situation that may endanger the child’s life, physical health, mental health, emotional health, morals, or development.

Child endangerment laws are usually included in a state’s penal or criminal code (statutes)—which provide for the related criminal charges—and in a state’s family code (statutes) that address the civil (non-criminal) implications of child endangerment—often in the context of divorce and child custody matters.

Except in limited circumstances, federal laws generally do not apply to child endangerment matters that take place within a single state. Such criminal matters that take place within a single state are generally handled by state or local authorities and prosecuted under state laws. But if the endangerment of a child involves conduct or materials in multiple states, or occurs on federal lands (military bases, American Indian territories) the offense may be prosecuted under federal law.

In Vermont, child endangerment laws are designed to protect children from situations that could harm their physical, mental, or emotional well-being. Vermont statutes categorize various acts under child abuse and neglect, which can include leaving a child unattended in a vehicle, driving under the influence with a child present, failing to provide proper supervision, and exposing children to illegal activities or harmful materials. These offenses can be prosecuted as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the severity of the situation. The Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) is involved in the civil aspects of child endangerment, particularly in matters of child custody and welfare. While most child endangerment cases are handled at the state level, federal law may apply if the conduct involves crossing state lines, occurs on federal lands, or involves federal agencies. An attorney specializing in family law or criminal defense can provide guidance specific to the circumstances of a case involving child endangerment in Vermont.